Oven Fried Chicken Perfection
Few dishes scream comfort food quite like fried chicken—crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and packed with flavor in every bite. But what if you could have all the crunch and satisfaction of traditional fried chicken without the mess or guilt of deep frying? Say hello to Oven Fried Chicken Perfection—your new go-to for crispy chicken magic baked right in your oven!
Yield: 4
Materials
Chicken + Marinade:
- 4 bone-in chicken thighs or drumsticks
- 1 cup buttermilk – For tenderizing and flavor
- 1 tsp hot sauce optional – Adds a kick to the marinade
- Seasoned Coating:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp paprika – For color and smoky depth
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt & pepper to taste
For Baking:
- 2 –3 tbsp vegetable oil or melted butter – For drizzling or brushing onto the baking sheet and chicken for that fried texture
Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
- In a large bowl or zip-top bag, combine buttermilk and hot sauce.
- Add chicken and ensure it’s fully coated.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight for maximum tenderness.
Step 2: Preheat Oven & Prep Pan
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Line a baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top (this helps the chicken crisp on all sides).
- Lightly grease the rack with oil or cooking spray.
Step 3: Dredge the Chicken
- In a shallow bowl, mix flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Remove chicken from marinade (allow excess to drip off).
- Dredge each piece in the flour mixture, pressing to ensure the coating sticks.
Step 4: Arrange & Bake
- Place the coated chicken on the prepared rack.
- Lightly drizzle or brush the tops with oil or melted butter for a golden crust.
- Bake for 35–45 minutes, flipping once halfway through, until the coating is crisp and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Step 5: Rest & Serve
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving so juices can redistribute.